A good 3 layer layering system is one of the best ways to regulate your temperature and keep you comfortable and warm whilst you tackle the great outdoors.
Whilst your base layer and waterproof jacket are important, don't underestimate the role that your fleece mid layer plays in your outdoors clothing arsenal. Here are some answers to commonly asked questions about our mid layer fleeces.
What is fleece?
A manmade synthetic fibre created with polyester; fleece can be a varied term and can look and feel fairly diverse depending on your purposes and the kind of fleece you choose. Some fleeces are made from a blend of natural fibres like polyester mixed with wool, cotton or nylon.
Fleece is the ideal material for a mid layer, as it is made from long lasting synthetic fibres that are able to trap air and keep you warm. All of our fleeces are designed to be insulating, moisture wicking and highly effective at temperature regulation. Fleeces are generally manufactured with different weights and varied technical features to suit different purposes.
What are the different kinds of midlayers?
Microfleece: Thin, lightweight and made out of soft material, microfleeces are most effective at transporting moisture away from the base layer to the outer layer whilst also providing a low level of insulation. They are great as one of the first layers of a layering system, whilst also offering the flexibility to wear on their own in milder weather. Weight is the key priority with this type of mid layer so you are unlikely to find features such as pockets or hoods. Ideal for more active pursuits, or for those times when you don't want to be weighed down. Our best selling Snowdon Microfleece is a popular choice season after season because of its lightweight feel and effective insulating system.Our new season Camber Microfleece is also set to become a staple for the wardrobe of any keen outdoor enthusiast.
Ideal for: General wear and walking, high energy activity.
Mid-weight Fleece
The most versatile and common fleece type, these fleeces are great to wear all day and for many different activities. Mid-weight fleeces have a higher level of insulation, comfort and breathability than microfleeces. They work well on their own on a country walk, or as a warm layer under a waterproof and breathable jacket in the mountains. The Griffin Fleece is ideal for keeping you warm and comfortable, and our Yeti fleece is a versatile item; perfect for both relaxing in the cottage or walking the mountains as part of your effective 3 layer system.
Ideal for: climbing and mountaineering, or in conditions where you require ease of movement, flexibility and you do not need a lot of extra insulation as you will be producing body heat naturally.
Windproof Fleece & Softshell Jackets
Soft shells are soft, malleable jackets that have the feel of a jumper, are generally more breathable than a waterproof jacket but still retain the waterproofing quality that an ordinary fleece jacket would not be able to provide. Although they won't provide the same waterproofing in heavy rain that our 3 in 1 waterproof jackets would, in showers they are highly effective and feel very comfortable on the body. Soft shell jackets bridge the gap between a fleece and a waterproof jacket. Our Extreme Soft Shell Jacket is ideal for those more trying circumstances, or our Alaska Soft Shell Jacket is a popular choice for a broad range of outdoor enthusiasts.
The benefits of a fleece: Easy to care for and generally machine washable It is a quick drying fabric that will not require ironing Comfortable, soft and generally breathable Are naturally insulating but do not need to be especially expensive.
Waterproofing
Most fleeces offer a certain degree of water repellency but do not provide full water resistance.Fleeces are generally intended to keep you warm but still allowing excess moisture to be moved to the surface, wicked away and evaporated. A soft shell fleece jacket however can provide a greater degree of water resistance, although still are not as effective as when worn with a waterproof jacket.
If you're after a product that has all the benefits of a fleece with the waterproofing nature of a waterproofing jacket, look no further than our 3 in 1 range; a jacket like the Storm 3 in 1 jacket provides both warmth and waterproofing in one easy purchase!